Radiographic evaluation of lower third molar position according to Pell & Gregory and Winter's classification

Abstract

Third molar extraction is the most common procedure in oral and maxillofacial surgery practice. Professional communication and surgical planning become easier with third molar classification. The aim of this work was to clas- sify lower third molar positions through orthopantomographic exa- mination of 277 patients who have suffered extraction in the Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of the Faculdade de Odontologia de Piracicaba of the Universidade Estadual de Campinas. The most prevalent tooth position was the mesioangular in class II – B. The authors emphasize the need of careful presurgical planning to decrease the risk of accidents and complications. Key words: dental inclusion, third molar.